HEAD START
The Head Start program is accepting applications for children between the ages of 3 and 4 years for the upcoming school year. Head Start is federally funded and enrolls children at or below the federal poverty guidelines and children with special needs. Ten percent of enrollment can be children whose family is over the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Head Start is a free preschool program with classes at five locations in Belmont County. Sites are in Barnesville, , Flushing, St. Clairsville, Bellaire, and Martins Ferry. All centers are licensed through the Department of Children & Youth (DCY). Classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday from 9:00-2:00 at most locations except Barnesville, classes in Barnesville run from 9:30-2:30. Snack and lunch are served daily.
Head Start is a comprehensive preschool program, providing education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services. The program’s services and resources are designed to foster stable family relationships, enhance children’s physical and emotional well-being, and establish an environment to develop strong cognitive skills.
Studies show that children starting kindergarten without first attending a preschool program enter school an estimated 18 months behind their peers.
Applications may be completed online or by calling the office.
Locations
- Barnesville
- Flushing
- St. Clairsville
- Bellaire
- Martins Ferry
- Powhatan Point
Head Start Philosophy
It is the basic philosophy that people can be influenced by the world in which they find themselves. If the environment is lacking in any area, such as health, nutrition, education, etc., then full growth cannot occur.
Therefore, we at the Community Action Commission of Belmont County Head Start desire to provide to the children, parents, staff, and community a program that supports growth and development for the ages and stages of development of all those involved.
By providing a broad range of services, experiences, training, and support, a person involved can grow into a more confident, secure, healthy, and experienced human being.
